Andrea Murphy, The Mobile Makeup Artist under the microscope

Andrea Murphy is one of Munster’s most sought-after freelance makeup artists and with good reason. From bridal looks to special effects, Andrea’s portfolio covers the full spectrum of cosmetic creativity. Hi Magazine sat down with the makeup artist to pick her mind on all things beauty and transformation.

What attracted you to the industry?

My love of makeup but not so much the products or trends; it was the transformation that it can bring, in a beauty way but also the special effects way. Yes, you can make someone beautiful but the first time I worked in the theatre I was asked to make people look ugly, tired and sick on a production of Sweeney Todd and this changed the way I looked at makeup. It was so simple, yet so effective! The power of makeup is what attracted me to the industry.

How did you get to where you are today?

Hard work! For five years I worked two jobs to help get my makeup career started, practically working seven days a week but it was worth it. I now work only in the makeup industry and I love it and feel the hard work and sacrifices were worth it. I rarely turn down a job, no matter how big or small. You never know what doors it will open or opportunities it may bring. I love my job and most of the time it doesn’t feel like work, so it’s easy to put the hours in.

What do you love most about what you do?

Seeing the happiness on someone’s face when they love their makeup; there’s no better feeling!

Also, the people I get to work with. From my brides to students to makeup clients, meeting new people everyday, so no day is the same. Then my coworkers, hairdressers, stylists, photographers and models; like-minded people. There is such a close-knit community in Cork with the freelance hair and makeup people; we all support each other, which is really nice to have when you freelance.

What’s the most difficult part of what you do?

I really don’t find my job difficult at all, so maybe just the unsociable hours – working weekends etc – but when you love what you do, you don’t mind making sacrifices.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

A makeup teacher who taught me in this industry it’s 50 percent your talent and 50 percent your personality. I have seen this over the years time and time again. Be it at weddings or on a photoshoot, if the people you are working with can’t relate to you they probably won’t want to work with you again. It doesn’t matter how talented you are. So, always be nice and go the extra mile!

What is the best piece of advice you can pass on?

To my brides, it’s always enjoy your day. Easier said than done, I know, when you are nervous! But you have planned this day for so long, spent a lot of time and money, so when the day comes it’s time to enjoy it. Only friends and family are there with you and they all want you to enjoy your day, so have fun.

Who are your makeup icons?

Pat Mcgrath and Alex Box are both amazing makeup artists, constantly creating new trends and looks.

What plans do you have for your business over the next 12 months?

Continue to focus on my weddings and working with my lovely brides! Also I hope to continue working on photoshoots, as this allows you to be creative and work with great teams.

What I’m most excited about is coming on board as an educator in Tiger Training Academy. Sinead O’Keefe, the owner, is a very good friend of mine and has a great team working with her, so I am delighted to be on board.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully, still doing what I’m doing! It’s such a lovely job and industry to be in and I hope to continue to be a part of it. Definitely continue with teaching, as I’m very passionate about it and love encouraging others.

How do you stay motivated?

I think working with talented people keeps you motivated. I have made so many great friends in the industry constantly encouraging and supporting each other. When you have that backing and support behind you, you feel like you can accomplish anything!

What advice would you give young people who want to break into the industry?

Work hard, train with good people and practice is key! Don’t compare yourself to others. We all have our own style and there is plenty of work for everyone, so support each other and don’t get too caught up in the Instagram life.